Your 2016 Back to School Technology Guide

As August comes lurking in, we know that school is right around the corner. Before you know it, your students will be back in the classroom. Will your child succeed with the technology he/she currently uses?

If it’s time to update your technology, look no further! Heart Technologies scoured the Internet to find sources for you to use when purchasing your next back to school devices.

Your 2016 Back to School Technology Guide

Laptop

Having a computer used to be a luxury, but at some schools, it is now mandated. If your student is heading for college, having a laptop is a requirement. While desktop computers can be great for storing files and hard-wired connections (sketchy WiFi networks that some colleges offer can be subpar), but students require mobility. From studying in the lounge, collaborating in the library, streaming Netflix programs during downtime, or DJ-ing on a Friday night, students are on the move. They need technology that does the same.

Streaming Sticks

When your child heads off to college, the costs can be overwhelming. Besides university costs, buying your student everything for school and life in the dorms piles up quick. An easy way to save is with streaming sticks. Streaming devices turn your newer television set into a smart TV at a fraction of the cost. Smart TVs can cost upwards $350 for small sized sets. Purchasing a standard television on sale at an electronics store, then purchasing a streaming device can provide similar technology at a lower price point.

For example, I purchased my 43″ 1080p television from Best Buy for $200. I then purchased a Roku streaming stick for $50. I spent $250 on my television technology, saving me $100 according to the lowest estimate.

Why does your student need this? There is a social aspect–because let’s face it, everyone congregates to the room with the best TV and hangout setup. This can also be a disaster avoiding mechanism as well. If your student is the social butterfly, with friends coming in and out to hang out, being able to use the TV for pumping music means the laptop gets put away–out of risk of drink spillage, dropping, or theft. This will save you money in the long run. In addition, stream sticks can also let your student play games and watch movies required for school (they’re studying for film appreciation class, not watching “Casablanca” for fun!).

Smartwatches

Why not use this new school year as a time to start new goals with your student? This year, make organization and time management a priority. Investing in a smartwatch for your student can help promote their productivity for many reasons.

Getting new technology often becomes a fun bonding time for users. They want to know the ins and outs of the device, so your student will be eager to set up alarms, notifications, and more. Having the technology always at their fingertips makes the art of time management fun again. With more enjoyment will come better organization of their time as well as increased productivity. Plus, when connected to their smartphone, they’ll always see when Mom or Dad is calling. 😉

Tablets

Tablets are great for students. If your student needs optimal mobility and Internet access, tablets can provide that with less weight than a laptop. Tablets can be great for taking notes in class or reviewing study materials and flash cards before an exam. Having a tablet can be great for helping your student get in shape, too. Turn on the latest “Game of Thrones” episode and take a jog or bike ride to burn off some calories. Bring your tablet into a studio at the rec center to have your very own workout session via downloaded video or streamed content.

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It was a real pleasure working with you guys. Everyone that came here was a true professional. I really enjoyed working with the guys that did the installation. They came prepared every day to work hard. I never had to talk to any of them. They followed all of our policies to the tee. It was truly a pleasure.

Bob EricksonMaintenance/Engineering ManagerContinental Mills

Heart Electronics was instrumental in assessing our existing phone and security system, and making recommendations to save the Elmwood District money. From beginning to end, the customer service was excellent.

Dr. Roger AlveySuperintendentElmwood CUSD #322

All comprehensive system replacement projects experience issues, but it’s the response of the technology partner that determines whether or not the project is successful. Heart went to great lengths to preserve a seamless end user experience. Heart ensured the upgrade was carried out in a complete, timely, and non-disruptive manner.

Matt BradleyNetwork ManagerKeystone Steel and Wire Co.

I am very satisfied we chose Heart Technologies for our telephony needs. They have really improved our communications and worked with us to improve our organization.

Tom BrimberryCity AdministratorCity of East Peoria

I am very satisfied we chose Heart Technologies for our telephony and networking needs. Their staff is very personable and they care about you.

Connie ArmstrongCoordinator/SupervisorWoodford County 9-1-1

When bringing Heart on board, they came in, took a look at our whole operation, and made recommendations of what they thought would work best for us. They actually came up with solutions that we hadn’t even though of yet, which really took us to the next level.